Our BME (Black and Minority Ethnic) network met recently to discuss how they'll work together to help support their action plans approved by the Board.

WRES was introduced across the NHS in April 2015 after engaging and consulting key stakeholders. It's main aim is to make sure staff are free from discrimination in order to to meet the needs of our patients.

A large number of colleagues from the BME network (pictured) are involved in supporting the WRES action plan which includes:

• Set out clear and helpful guidelines spelling out acceptable/ unacceptable behaviour and language 
• Create a safe and effective pathway for dealing with issues of discrimination and racism
• Improve recruitment processes, including having a BME person as a panel member for Band 7 and senior management appointments 
• Strengthen the current E&D training to include cultural awareness training (so people understand cultural sensitivities) and how to challenge on issues of equality and diversity
• Provide mentoring and coaching, including support to navigate training and development pathways and opportunities for job shadowing 
• Improve cultural sensitivity in how we treat patients including taking steps to understand patients diverse needs and adjusting services to suit those needs 
• Create processes to monitor progress and measure the effectiveness of the steps we are taking
• Develop a comprehensive  programme for BME staff to support them in career progression/promotion 

If you've got any questions about WRES, have ideas or want to get involved please email: WRES@cht.nhs.uk

You can also see a brief presentation about progress to date below.